Bayram is one of the major religious holidays celebrated by Muslims around the world. Known as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Bayram is an important part of Turkish culture and tradition. If you’re traveling to Turkey in 2023, here is everything you need to know about when Bayram falls and how it is celebrated.
What is Bayram?
Bayram directly translates to ‘feast’ or ‘festival’ in Turkish It refers to two major Islamic holidays – Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
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Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the completion of fasting It is a joyous 3-day celebration with grand feasts, new clothes, gifts and prayers
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Eid al-Adha honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is a 4-day holiday filled with sacrifice rituals, charity and community meals.
Both Eids are celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm and fanfare in Turkey, making them a special time to visit the country.
When is Bayram in Turkey in 2023?
Turkey will celebrate two Bayram holidays in 2023:
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated from April 21 to April 23, 2023 in Turkey.
The key dates are:
- April 20: Ramadan Eve (Half day holiday)
- April 21: Eid al-Fitr
- April 22-23: Public holidays
As per the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Fitr 2023 will fall on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of Shawwal 1444 in Turkey.
Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha 2023 in Turkey will take place from June 28 to July 1.
The important dates are:
- June 26: Eid al-Adha Eve (Half day holiday)
- June 27: Public holiday
- June 28: Eid al-Adha
- June 29 to July 1: Public holidays
The Islamic dates correspond to the 9th to the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah 1444.
Bayram Traditions & Celebrations in Turkey
Bayram brings the entire country to a standstill, with cities decked out in lights and festive decorations. Here are some of the key traditions you can witness during your Turkey visit:
Prayers & Mosque Visits
The day starts with a congregational prayer service held in mosques or outdoor spaces. Mosques are ornately decorated and thousands gather to offer the special Bayram namaz prayers.
Festive Markets & Bazaars
Bustling open-air bazaars are set up selling Bayram supplies, clothes, toys and sweets. They stay open late into the night during the holidays.
Family Gatherings & Lavish Meals
Families get together for grand lunches and dinners. Tables are laden with rich Turkish dishes and desserts like baklava, lokum, kebabs, pilaf and dolma.
Sweets & Gift Exchange
Exchanging plates of baklava, cookies and Turkish delight is customary. Children also receive eidi gifts and money from elders.
New Clothes & Fashion
People dress up in their finest new traditional outfits or modern fashion during the holiday. Streets are filled with colorful dresses, suits and hijabs.
Entertainment & Celebrations
Festivities include concerts, cultural performances, carnivals and night markets. Public spaces come alive with musicians, street food stalls and games.
Charity & Donations
Zakat giving and sacrificial animal slaughter takes place during Eid al-Adha. The meat is distributed among the poor, highlighting the festive spirit of charity.
Planning a Bayram Turkey Visit
Visiting Turkey during Bayram offers a wealth of memorable cultural experiences. Here are some tips to plan your holiday:
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Book accommodations well in advance as places get crowded. Staying in Istanbul or Cappadocia lets you enjoy the merrymaking.
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Look up prayer times at nearby mosques to join in the special namaz on the day.
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Wander through bazaars and shopping areas to soak in the festive buzz. Spice markets and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul are great spots.
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Try booking a food tour or cooking class to sample the delicious Bayram spreads.
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Dress modestly and avoid drinking alcohol openly out of respect for local sensibilities.
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Tourist attractions like museums and some restaurants may be closed during the actual Eid days. Plan accordingly.
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Expect crowds and traffic delays when taking public transport around holidays. Book airport transfers beforehand.
Experience Turkey’s Vibrant Festive Spirit
Bayram gives visitors a chance to experience Turkey’s warm hospitality, delectable cuisine and vibrant traditions. The cheerful decorated streets, calls to prayer, communal feasts and family bonding make it an unforgettable time to immerse in local culture. Observing how Turkish people celebrate these important Islamic occasions will become highlights of your trip.
Holidays and Observances in Turkey in 2023
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While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. If you find an error, please let us know.
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FAQ
What are the days of Bayram in Turkey?
How long does Kurban Bayram last?
How long is the Eid holiday in Turkey?
What holiday is now in Turkey?
When is Kurban Bayram 2023?
In 2023, Kurban Bayramı began with arife (preparation) on June 27 ( Tuesday ), the first day was June 28 (Wednesday) and it continued for four days until the evening of July 1 (Saturday), with travel effects from June 27th through July 1. Kurban Bayramı (Eid el-Adha), known as the the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is a festival similar to Thanksgiving.
When is Ramazan Bayrami in 2023?
According to this; Ramazan Bayrami (or Seker Bayrami) in 2023 is celebrated on 21-22-23 April, in 2024 will be on 10-11-12 April, in 2025 will be on 30 March – 1-2 April, in 2026 will be on 20-21-22 March, in 2027 will be on 9-10-11 March.
When does Kurban Bayram start in 2025?
In 2025, Kurban Bayramı begins with arife (preparation) on June 5 (Thursday), the first day is June 6th (Friday) and it continues for four days until the evening of June 9 (Monday), with travel effects from June 5th through June 9th.
What is Kurban Bayram (Eid el-Adha)?
Kurban Bayramı (Eid el-Adha), the “Feast of Sacrifice” on 10 Zilhicce (Dhul-hijja) of the Islamic Hijri calendar, is a special holiday for Turkish people. Keep in mind this holiday will affect your travel plans if your trip to Turkey includes the four-day holiday period—which can stretch to a week or more, depending upon the dates.